Conclusions of Georgian Patriarchate Delegation’s Visit to Russia
0 Comments Published by georgy on Thursday, November 27 at 12:16 AM.
Members of the delegation of Georgian Patriarchate visiting Russia summarized the visit. The 4-10 November visit was summarized by Metropolitan Grigol of Poti and Khobi, Archbishop Andria of Samtavisi and Gori, Archpriest George Kharazishvili, and expert of political science Zurab Abashidze. According to Mr Abashidze, main issue to be discussed during Russian visit was permission of Georgian clergy to serve at our churches in Abkhazia and the so-called South Ossetia. The issue was discussed together with Patriarch of All Russia Alexi II, and Head of Foreign Relations Department Metropolitan Cyril. As it is known, Russian Patriarchate offered Georgian Patriarchate to let Russian clergy to serve at churches in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. They offered Russian clergy to lead spiritual life until Georgian clergy could enter the territory. The Georgian Patriarchate refused the offer. Georgian side stated that only Georgian clergy could be spiritual leaders for their parish, and no any other church should do that despite its kind will. “Hence, there has not been worked out any ready-made recipe for returning back to Abkhazia and the so-called South Ossetia yet. Though, negotiation has been started. The visit is rather significant. Churches try to build first bridge after August events”, said Mr Zurab Abashidze. According to Mr Abashidze, Russian delegation pays return visit on 25 December 2008 to participate in celebrations of Catholicos Patriarch Enthronization day, and continue launched negotiations. Besides, upon initiative by Ministry of Foreign affairs of Russia, the Georgian delegation had meetings at the Ministry. The delegation also met with Georgian Diaspora, and Russian Patriarchate Charitable Foundation. According to Metropolitan Grigol, it is expected to have joint projects by charitable foundations of Georgian and Russian patriarchates. The Georgian delegation’s visit wad been scheduled to be held in August, though it was postponed in November due to august events.
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